(RE)ENGAGING YOUR PARTNER CONSTRUCTIVELY

I’m so disgusted by what you did.

I’m taken aback by what happened.

You make my blood boil.

I’m so full of fear right now.

You irritate me.

I’m feeling overwhelmed.

Can you see how the left column describes feelings and casts judgment on a partner? The right column communicates your feelings without assigning blame. Also pay close attention to the tone of your voice. If your tone conveys anger and hostility, rather than sadness and fear, the conversation is likely to turn into an argument, no matter what words you say.